At a Glance
- Tasks: Plan and optimise work activities for safe and efficient railway operations.
- Company: Join Network Rail, where your contributions matter to millions.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension options, discounted travel, and volunteer days.
- Other info: Flexible work environment with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that ensures safe and connected railways across the country.
- Qualifications: Strong planning skills and ability to engage with stakeholders.
The predicted salary is between 31000 - 33000 £ per year.
Who We Are
Join Network Rail - Where People and Connections Matter. At Network Rail, we're dedicated to keeping passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the country. When you join us, you're not just part of a team - you're part of something that matters to millions. We believe that our people are at the heart of what we do, and every role plays a vital part in building a better, more connected railway. We're committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We value flexibility and understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance. As a Disability Confident Leader, we'll do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process.
Safe behaviour is a requirement of working for Network Rail. Applicants should be able to demonstrate their awareness of our safety vision.
About The Role
This role is responsible for planning, coordinating and optimising all agreed work activities within the section to ensure safe, efficient and compliant delivery. You will produce Safe Systems of Work, submit green zone access and isolation requests, and develop draft quarterly plans to support short-term and medium-term operational objectives. A key part of the role involves managing weekly Plan-Do-Review meetings and representing Section Managers at planning meetings, ensuring clear communication and effective stakeholder engagement. You will also be accountable for maintaining high-quality records by accurately updating systems, databases and infrastructure maintenance documentation. Through careful collation and management of planning and maintenance records, you will support informed decision-making, performance monitoring and continuous improvement across the section.
Your Experience And Skills
Salary - Band 5 - £31,000 - £33,000 per annum
Closing Date - 24th September 2026
Here Are a Few Of The Benefits We Offer
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- Choice of pension schemes
- Discounted leisure train travel for you and your family
- 75% subsidy on Rail and Underground season tickets
- 5 days paid volunteer or carers leave
- My Benefits platform - giving national and local discounts on retailers, gym membership and more
Our aim is to ensure your candidate experience is as positive as possible. If you require reasonable adjustments at any point, simply let us know - we'll do our best to assist you.
For further information about the role, please contact David Warren - Section Manager. For help with the recruitment process, please contact WesternResourcing@networkrail.co.uk.
Section Planner in Reading employer: NETWORK RAIL
Network Rail is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where collaboration and innovation thrive. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while contributing to vital infrastructure projects in the UK. The supportive culture and commitment to maintaining accurate data ensure that your role as a Data & SharePoint Support Specialist is both meaningful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Section Planner in Reading
✨Connect with Local Logistic Groups
Dive into local transportation and logistics groups on platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn. Show up to their meetups if you can – it's a great way to network with industry pros who can share insights, job openings, or even refer you to their own company.
✨Get Behind the Wheel of Job Boards
Look for job boards specific to transportation and logistics, like Logistics Job Site or TransportJobs. These platforms often have listings that you won’t find on general job boards, so they’re worth checking out regularly!
✨Leverage Internships & Graduate Schemes
Many companies in transportation and logistics offer graduate schemes and internships that can pave the way to full-time positions. Don't shy away from applying; even a short stint can make a solid impact on your CV and get your foot in the door at companies like NETWORK RAIL.
✨Apply Directly with Us!
When you find openings at great companies, make sure to apply directly through our website. It not only shows your initiative but also helps us to help you get noticed by NETWORK RAIL. Every application gets us one step closer to landing that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Section Planner in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:When you're applying for a role in the transportation and logistics sector at NETWORK RAIL, make sure to highlight any relevant experience. Whether it's moving goods, coordinating schedules, or using transportation management software, give us the lowdown on your past gigs. It'll paint a clearer picture of what you're capable of!
Quantify Your Achievements:Numbers speak volumes in logistics! If you've optimised routes, reduced delivery times, or improved customer satisfaction, mention those incredible stats in your CV. This gives us concrete evidence of your impact and showcases your problem-solving skills.
Tailor That Cover Letter:Your cover letter should be more than just a formality—let it breathe your personality and passion for logistics! Explain why you're excited about the role at NETWORK RAIL and how you can contribute to our team. Don't forget to tie in specific skills or experiences that relate to the job description.
Research and Reflect:Before you hit 'submit,' spend some time digging into NETWORK RAIL. Understand our mission, values, and the specific challenges in the logistics industry. This will help you craft a targeted application that shows you truly want to be part of our crew, setting you apart from the rest!
How to prepare for a job interview at NETWORK RAIL
✨Know Your Logistics Basics
Get familiar with the key principles of transportation and logistics, like supply chain management, inventory control, and route optimisation. You might get asked practical questions about how to improve efficiency, so brush up on your problem-solving skills and be prepared to discuss any relevant software tools you've used.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
In logistics, employers love to gauge how you'd handle real-life situations. Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll need to demonstrate your decision-making skills, like how to manage delays or coordinate shipments during a crisis. Practise outlining your thought process clearly and logically.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
Full-time roles in logistics often require collaboration with various teams, so don't forget to showcase your teamwork experience. Think of examples where you've used communication and collaboration to ensure smooth operations, and get ready to elaborate on how you can facilitate teamwork in a busy environment like at NETWORK RAIL.
✨Show Off Your Attention to Detail
In our world of logistics, missing a small detail can lead to big problems. Be prepared to discuss instances where your attention to detail saved the day, whether it was engaging with clients, managing documentation, or tracking shipments accurately. This will help demonstrate how you can be a reliable asset to NETWORK RAIL.
